President’s Message
“Together We Thrive: Uniting as a Strong and Supportive Herd”
Purnima S. Patel, MD
Dear Women in Ophthalmology Members,
Welcome to 2025! As I step into the role of president of Women in Ophthalmology, I am filled with gratitude and determination to continue empowering each of you. In the spirit of this year’s theme, I want to reflect on a remarkable example of female strength and unity found in nature: the sisterhood of female elephants.
In the wild, female elephants form tight-knit groups where they nurture, protect, and support each other. Whether it’s guiding a young calf, standing guard during challenging times, or celebrating successes, these herds thrive because of their collective wisdom, compassion, and resilience. Each elephant is not just an individual; she is part of a powerful network—a community bound by trust and mutual care.
Like these elephants, we too have built a vibrant and empowering community. We lift each other up, share knowledge, and create safe spaces for growth. We protect and advocate for one another as we navigate our own unique professional journeys. When one of us faces a challenge, we come together to ensure no one walks alone. When one of us succeeds, we all celebrate.
I invite each of you to fully engage with this extraordinary “herd” of ours. Attend our marquis event, the WIO Summer Symposium at the beautiful Ritz Carlton Amelia Island, Florida on August 7-10, 2025. Invite a friend, colleague, and/or mentee to join this powerful, inspiring, and fun meeting! Look out for other WIO sponsored events at Hawaiian Eye, AUPO, ASCRS, and AAO to name a few. At each of our WIO events throughout the year, I encourage you to expand your networks, mentor a colleague, and share your insights. Just as female elephants lead with strength and grace, let us do the same in ophthalmology. Together, we can break barriers, overcome challenges, and pave the way for the next generation of women in this field.
Thank you for being a part of this incredible journey. Let’s continue to uplift, protect, and empower one another. Because when we support each other, we don’t just survive—we thrive.
With deepest gratitude and excitement for the year ahead,
Sincerely,
Purnima S. Patel, MD
President, Women in Ophthalmology
